The Hyundai i30 I CW (facelift 2010) 1.6 CRDi Automatic is a station wagon variant of the first-generation Hyundai i30, produced from 2010 to 2012. This model represented Hyundai’s continued push into the European C-segment, offering a practical and fuel-efficient option for families. The “CW” designation signifies the station wagon (estate) body style, and the facelift introduced styling updates and refinements to the original i30 design. This particular configuration, pairing the 1.6-liter CRDi diesel engine with a four-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as a mid-range offering, prioritizing ease of use and fuel economy over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i30 |
| Generation | i30 I CW (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (116 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 1900-2750 rpm (188.08 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4FB |
| Engine displacement | 1582 cm3 (96.54 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.2 mm (3.04 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1341 kg (2956.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 599 kg (1320.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 415 l (14.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1395 l (49.26 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Length | 4500 mm (177.17 in.) |
| Width | 1775 mm (69.88 in.) |
| Height | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Rear track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 H |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this i30 variant is the Hyundai D4FB 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, a member of Hyundai’s U-series diesel family, utilizes a second-generation common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The D4FB features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design operating four valves per cylinder (DOHC), and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to boost power and torque. The turbocharger helps to mitigate turbo lag and provide a broader powerband. The engine produces 116 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 255 Nm (188 lb-ft) of torque between 1,900 and 2,750 rpm. This torque output is a key characteristic of diesel engines, providing strong low-end pulling power. The engine is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, which, while providing convenience, is a relatively dated design compared to more modern automatic transmissions with six or more gears. This impacts fuel efficiency and acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi Automatic i30 CW offers a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. The automatic transmission eliminates the need for manual gear changes, making it well-suited for city driving and long journeys. However, the four-speed automatic does limit the engine’s ability to stay in its optimal powerband, resulting in slower acceleration compared to the manual transmission versions or the higher-output 1.6 CRDi variants. The 0-60 mph time of around 12.7 seconds reflects this. The engine delivers adequate power for everyday driving, but overtaking maneuvers require careful planning. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a reasonably smooth ride, although it may exhibit some body roll during cornering. The steering is light and easy to use, but lacks significant feedback.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with CD player. Safety features included ABS, front airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. Higher trim levels, available as options, could add features like alloy wheels, a trip computer, climate control, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The i30 CW utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a coupled torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The relatively modest power output of this variant meant that the braking system was generally adequate for its intended use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i30 I CW 1.6 CRDi Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted that the automatic transmission felt somewhat dated and impacted performance. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered less engaging driving experience and slightly lower fuel economy. The higher-output 1.6 CRDi variants provided more spirited performance, but at a higher price point. The i30 competed with other C-segment station wagons such as the Ford Focus Estate, Volkswagen Golf Estate, and Opel Astra Sports Tourer.
Legacy
The Hyundai i30 I CW 1.6 CRDi Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the D4FB engine generally considered durable. Common issues include wear and tear on the turbocharger and potential problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), particularly on vehicles that have primarily been used for short journeys. In the used car market, these i30s represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient station wagon. However, potential buyers should be aware of the age of the vehicle and the potential for maintenance issues associated with older diesel engines and automatic transmissions.
